by Ashis Sinha
Prayagraj: The 2025 Mahakumbh, set to commence with the first Amrit Snan on Monday, is not only a grand spiritual event but also a model of excellence in healthcare and cultural showcase. The 45-day gathering, attracting millions of pilgrims from across the world, promises not only spiritual rejuvenation but also advanced medical care, with comprehensive planning and the latest technology ensuring the health and safety of attendees.
A key feature of the healthcare initiative is the Netra Kumbh Eye Fair, aimed at addressing vision impairment. The program has ambitious goals, including the distribution of three lakh eyeglasses and conducting five lakh OPD consultations, with a daily target of 10,000 consultations.
Additionally, an eye donation camp will be held to support the cause. Healthcare facilities at the Mahakumbh are equipped with state-of-the-art medical infrastructure, including a 100-bed central hospital at Parade Ground, providing a range of services from OPD consultations to ICU care. Sub-central hospitals at Arail and medical observation rooms at key railway stations, such as Prayagraj Junction, Naini, and Subedarganj, will further support the healthcare efforts. A team of 240 doctors from across the country will ensure comprehensive care for the pilgrims.
In parallel with the medical preparations, the Union Minister for Culture and Tourism, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, inaugurated Kalagram at Mahakumbh Nagar in Prayagraj. Kalagram, created by the Ministry of Culture, aims to highlight India’s diverse and vibrant cultural heritage through crafts, cuisine, and performances. Over the next 45 days, more than 14,600 artists will perform, offering both devotees and tourists a chance to immerse themselves in India’s rich cultural traditions.
Minister Shekhawat emphasized that the Mahakumbh symbolizes unity and devotion, noting that around 45 crore devotees are expected to attend the event, with 15 lakh foreign tourists among them. This grand confluence of spirituality, healthcare, and culture is poised to set a new precedent for large-scale events worldwide.
